Richard Dent misses Hall of Fame again

January 31, 2009

TAMPA -- Former Chicago Bear defensive standout Richard Dent, the MVP in Super Bowl XX, has once again been denied entry into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Those elected this time were safety Rod Woodson, defensive end Bruce Smith, guard Randall McDaniel of the Minnesota Vikings, the late Chiefs linebacker Derrick Thomas, the late Cowboys wide receiver Bob Hayes, and longtime Bills owner Ralph Wilson Jr.

Smith, the career sacks leader, and Woodson, who played in the league 17 years and is the all-time league leader in interception returns for touchdowns, were both elected on their first try.

Former commissioner Paul Tagliabue was denied for the third straight year. Tagliabue, who retired in 2006 after 17 years in the job, has met strong resistance in his three years of eligibility despite the profitability and labor peace the league enjoyed during his tenure.

The 90-year-old Wilson is the only owner the Bills have had since they were a charter member of the AFL in 1960.